Mincemeat Squares
Mincemeat Squares are delightful treats featuring a crunchy oat crust topped with rich, spiced mincemeat. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons, these squares offer a sweet, tangy flavor with a hint of warmth from the spices, appealing to both fruit and pastry lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, rolled oats, self-rising flour, and salt.
- Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of a greased 8-inch square baking pan.
- Spread the mincemeat evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the mincemeat.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the oat mixture. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. You can also use applesauce as a substitute for shortening for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
These mincemeat squares can be served as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack with a cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with Honey-Poached Apples for a comforting dessert platter. Consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover mincemeat squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mincemeat Squares contains roughly 580 calories, with 7g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 829mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these mincemeat squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these squares a day or two in advance. After baking and cooling, store them in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld together, making them even more delicious when served.
What can I use if I don't have mincemeat?
If you’re out of mincemeat, you can create a homemade alternative using chopped dried fruits like raisins, currants, or apples mixed with spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg for a similar flavor profile.
Can I freeze these mincemeat squares?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled squares tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).